You’ve sent many items before and you may think you know it all. However, we know that it is very easy to make little mistakes. In this article, we look at the most common mistakes we see people making when sending their parcels and identify the double checks you should make to start your parcel’s journey correctly.

ONLINE FORMS

When booking a courier service online, you’ll be asked to provide your address and the delivery address. Most web pages offer an auto-fill box which will make suggestions based on your history. This is supposed to save you time as an address should pop up immediately. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that it will be the correct one, especially if other people use your computer. If you’ve moved house, certain browsers may preference your old details. With that said, be sure to check each address line is correct before clicking the confirmation button.

PACKAGING

Packaging your parcel doesn’t have to be a hassle. A rule of thumb for packaging is to use strong packaging and secure it good quality parcel tape. If you do recycle packing boxes then be sure to remove any old labels or addresses that could be mistaken by the delivery service. For more information on this, take a look at our packaging guide.

LABELS

Making sure your parcels’ labels are correct and as clear as possible will ensure that your package reaches its destination without any hiccups. That’s why we recommend that if you can’t print a label, then you find someone to print it for you.

RESTRICTED ITEMS

Frequently, packages are refused by couriers if they are restricted. You will need to make sure you’re not sending something that could be unsafe. We do offer a couriering service specifically designed for dangerous goods. If you believe that what you’re sending may be dangerous, click here.

PAPERWORK

Filling in paperwork correctly is essential, especially if you’re sending an item overseas. For instance, not filling in a pro-forma invoice for deliveries outside of the EU means your items could be held at customs. This can also mean that parcels are returned to the sender which you may be charged for. For more information on sending parcels outside of the EU please see our shipment guide.

Planning and thorough checks will not only ensure your parcels delivery goes to plan but also gives you peace of mind.